[Seoul=Newsis] On May 10, 2024, the Cultural Heritage Administration announced its plan to designate six items as national designated cultural artifacts, including “Muan Mokwuam Wooden Amitabha Triad Statue” created right after the Japanese invasion, “Yeongdeok Jangnyuksa Yeongsan Goeumdo,” “Yeongdeok Jangnyuksa Jijangsiwangdo,” “Chojobon Daebang Gwangbul Hwaeom Gyeong Volume 59,” “Jaejobon Boungyeong·Bulseolawayu Wolchi Cha Gyeong Hapbu,” and “Doeun Seonsaengjip.”
The “Muan Mokwuam Wooden Amitabha Triad Statue” is a rare statue created in 1614, featuring Amitabha Buddha on the base with inscriptions related to its composition, making it significant in art history. The large-scale statue measures 186cm and embodies the resurgence of Buddhism after the invasion with its elaborate design.
The other designated artifacts, such as “Yeongdeok Jangnyuksa Yeongsan Goeumdo” and “Yeongdeok Jangnyuksa Jijangsiwangdo,” showcase precise craftsmanship and historical significance with clear records of their creation in 1764. These artifacts highlight the collaborative efforts of monks during the Buddhist rituals at that time, contributing to their academic value.
Additionally, “Chojobon Daebang Gwangbul Hwaeom Gyeong Volume 59” and “Jaejobon Boungyeong·Bulseolawayu Wolchi Cha Gyeong Hapbu” are valuable texts that offer insights into Buddhist practices and printing techniques during the Goryeo period, further enriching our understanding of Korean cultural heritage.
Lastly, the “Doeun Seonsaengjip,” a collection of poems by the late Goryeo scholar Yi Soongin, stands out for its preservation of historical texts and unique content not found in other historical records, underscoring its scholarly importance.
The Cultural Heritage Administration will gather opinions and conduct reviews during the 30-day notice period before officially designating these items as national treasures.